How to say "What do you do for a living?" in Russian
Кем ты работаешь?
Kem ty ra-BO-ta-yesh?
What does it mean?
Literally "As whom do you work?". This is the most natural way to ask about a person's profession.
When to use
Use this when getting to know a peer better at a party, networking event, or casual date.
When NOT to use
Do not use with older strangers or in highly formal settings. Use "Кем вы работаете?" instead.
Example dialogue
— Кем ты работаешь?
— What do you do for a living?
— Я программист. А ты?
— I am a programmer. And you?
Cultural note
Russians generally do not ask about salary. Asking about the profession is fine, but asking "How much do you make?" is considered extremely rude.
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